Table of Contents
Vic Sotto files cyberlibel case vs. Darryl Yap over Pepsi Paloma teaser
Veteran actor and host Vic Sotto has filed 19 counts of cyberlibel against director Darryl Yap following the release of a controversial film teaser that featured the late actress Pepsi Paloma. The teaser, titled “The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma,” made direct references to Sotto, prompting him to seek legal action.
Legal Action Filed at Muntinlupa RTC
Sotto’s legal counsel, Atty. Enrique Dela Cruz, confirmed that the cyberlibel charges were filed before the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court (RTC) on Thursday. The actor arrived at the court accompanied by his wife, Pauleen Luna, showcasing a united front amidst the legal battle.
The teaser in question features an actress portraying Pepsi Paloma being asked whether she was raped by Vic Sotto, to which the character responds affirmatively. This depiction, according to Sotto, is both defamatory and baseless.
Vic Sotto Breaks Silence
In an interview, Sotto addressed the controversy, stating that he had initially chosen to remain silent about the viral videos but now feels compelled to take action. “A lot of people have been asking me, ‘Ano reaction mo?’ Ito na po ‘yun. Ito na po ‘yung reaction ko. Sabi ko nga eh, ito’y walang personalan ito, I just trust in our justice system. Ako’y laban sa mga irresponsableng tao lalo na pagdating sa social media,” he said.
Sotto emphasized that no one from the film’s production consulted him regarding his inclusion in the narrative. “Walang kumunsulta, walang nagpaalam, walang consent,” he asserted. Despite this, he expressed no ill feelings toward the actors involved in the movie, stating, “Wala, trabaho lang ‘yon, no problem.”
Immediate Court Response
Following the filing of the case, the Muntinlupa RTC ordered the immediate takedown of the film trailer. While Yap has yet to respond to the allegations, he previously stated that the film is not about TVJ (the collective name for Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon) but focuses on the life of Pepsi Paloma. However, he did not deny that TVJ is referenced in the film.
Who Was Pepsi Paloma?
Pepsi Paloma, born Delia Duenas Smith, was a Filipino-American actress and dancer who rose to fame in the 1980s as part of the “soft-drink beauties”—a group of actresses known for their daring roles. Her life was marred by controversy and tragedy, including a highly publicized rape case in 1982 that implicated TV personalities Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon. The case ended with an affidavit of desistance, reportedly signed under duress, and remains a subject of speculation and intrigue.
Paloma’s untimely death in 1985, ruled as suicide, has fueled conspiracy theories and debates about justice and power dynamics in the entertainment industry. Her story continues to resonate, symbolizing the struggle for accountability and the exploitation of women in show business.
Why the Controversy is Trending
The controversy surrounding the film teaser has reignited public interest in Pepsi Paloma’s story, a tale that has long been shrouded in mystery and scandal. Social media platforms have become battlegrounds for heated debates about artistic freedom, ethical storytelling, and the responsibilities of filmmakers. The mention of high-profile figures like Vic Sotto has only added fuel to the fire, ensuring the issue remains a trending topic.
Projecting Pepsi Paloma’s Legacy
Pepsi Paloma’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of power imbalance and the silencing of victims. It highlights the need for systemic reforms to protect vulnerable individuals in the entertainment industry and beyond. Her legacy challenges society to confront uncomfortable truths and demand accountability.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not intend to defame, harm, or misrepresent any individuals or entities mentioned. All opinions and perspectives are based on publicly available information. Readers are encouraged to verify details from reliable sources.
Gamescorewire neither endorses nor supports any opinions or actions depicted in this content.
